When in Rome, you're supposed to "do as the Romans do." And right now, that might mean partaking in an impromptu snowball fight. Meteorologists have dubbed a weather phenomenon hailing from Siberia as the "Beast From the East," and on Monday, Feb. 26, it hit Rome, causing schools and businesses to shut down in the face of the rare snowfall in Italy's capital.

Based on photos and videos of the snow-covered city, Rome wears white quite well. The last time Rome saw snow was in 2012. The cold snap has also brought with it unseasonably chilly temperatures, and much of Europe, including the UK, is feeling the effects of the so-called "beast." Check out stunning photos of the historical streets of Rome covered in a beautiful blanket of snow.